At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a dynamic team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
- Company: Join the fun at Merlin, where we create magical memories for guests worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts on LEGO, free attraction tickets, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be a key player in ensuring operational excellence and guest satisfaction.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in operations or hospitality with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 41000 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a Zonal Operations Manager to join our AWESOME Operations Team! As a Zonal Operations Manager, you will be a key leader within resort operations, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day performance of a designated zone. You will ensure operational excellence across rides, commercial units, guest facilities, and overall presentation, delivering a consistently outstanding guest experience. Acting as the primary point of contact for your zone, you will manage escalations, coordinate resources, and maintain high standards of cleanliness, safety, and service at all times.
You will lead, support, and inspire a multiskilled team, fostering a culture of engagement, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Through regular coaching, performance management, and development planning, you will ensure your team consistently delivers exceptional service aligned to brand standards. You will also take ownership of workforce planning, operational readiness during peak periods, and ensuring all teams are well-briefed and aligned to business priorities.
A strong focus on data-driven decision making is essential in this role. You will monitor operational performance and guest feedback, using insights to optimise resources, improve standards, and enhance the overall guest journey. You will proactively identify risks, implement improvements, and contribute to wider operational initiatives, working cross-functionally to drive performance across the resort.
Health, safety, and compliance are central to the role. You will ensure all policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements are adhered to, including risk assessments, training compliance, and incident management. Acting as a role model for safety and operational excellence, you will lead responses to incidents, promote best practice, and ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for guests and colleagues alike.
Qualifications & Experience
- Proven experience in a leadership role within operations, hospitality, leisure, or a similar environment
- Strong ability to lead, coach, and develop high-performing, multiskilled teams
- Excellent operational awareness, with experience managing performance, safety, and guest experience simultaneously
- Demonstrated experience managing escalations and delivering effective, customer-focused resolutions
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and drive continuous improvement initiatives
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and stakeholders
- Effective problem-solving skills with a proactive, solution-focused mindset
- Experience working with compliance frameworks, health & safety policies, and operational procedures
- High attention to detail, ensuring standards are consistently upheld across all areas of responsibility
- Adaptable and resilient, with the ability to perform in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
- Proven ability to build relationships with internal teams, contractors, and external partners
- Strong organisational and decision-making skills, with the ability to prioritise and manage competing demands
Benefits
- 40% discount off LEGO® sets and products on the online LEGO Store!
- Merlin Magic Pass: 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all of our Merlin Attractions across the world!
- 25% discount in Merlin retail shops and restaurants (a brilliant extra treat when you’re using your Magic Pass to visit!)
- Staff discount codes for Merlin Annual Passes to gift to loved ones!
- Private pension scheme
- Life assurance scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Access to Perks at Work which 30,000+ national & local employee discounts
- Ongoing training & development
About Merlin: A job with Merlin isn’t like a job anywhere else. With attractions around the world, from rollercoasters to wax figures, we don’t trade in suits, handshakes or briefcases. We trade in fun. In smiles, shrieks and spine-tingles. In Memories. In magic. But there are no tricks behind our magic. Instead, there are people like you. Passionate, dedicated people who are committed to making sure our worldwide attractions and guests’ experiences are the best they can be.
If you have any questions or if you require any reasonable adjustments, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at recruitment@merlinentertainments.biz and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Pay Range: Competitive
Contact Details:
Chessington World of Adventures Resort Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Zonal Operations Manager
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Chessington World of Adventures Resort. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chessington World of Adventures Resort
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chessington World of Adventures Resort directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Zonal Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Chessington World of Adventures Resort and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chessington World of Adventures Resort
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
